Blog News
Victorian Times: Collecting Antique Bohemian Garnet Jewelry Guide
Before World War I (1914-1918), the Czech Republic was formally the historic region of Bohemia. One of the most famous Victorian gemstones was sourced in Bohemia, which began mining and exporting Bohemian garnet during the Middle Ages. Bohemian garnet was not only a beautiful gemstone used in 19th-century accessories, but it was also cost-effective compared to diamonds and other precious stones. The metals used in Bohemian Garnet jewelry were more economical and cost-effective. Victorian Bohemian garnet jewelry became a popular costume trend, and its distinctive beauty is still heavily curated and worn. Antique Victorian Era Bohemian Garnet beaded necklace and...
Happy Book Anniversary! Celebrating One Year of Unsung Portraits & Future Titles
On February 14th, 2021, I published my second book: ''Unsung Portraits: Anonymous Images of Black Victorians and Early 20th Century Ancestors''. The book emphasizes the accurate and non-distorted images of Black Victorians, the complete opposite of what has been portrayed in Black Americana memorabilia. For centuries, hateful stereotypes of Black Victorians have dominated the poster-child image of Black Americana. However, the negative caricatures that are emphasized are not an accurate representation. Unsung Portraits celebrates beautiful pictures of Black Victorians. Their grace, dignity, pride, and impeccable style are reflected in the images and part of their important stories. We are celebrating the first anniversary of...
Edwardian Era Jewelry Trends: The Historical Epochal of a Short Lived Era
The early 20th century ushered in new jewelry trends and designs inspired by the societal influences and fashion changes that encompassed the turn of the century. Queen Victoria's reign lasted from 1837 until she died in 1901. The end of her iconic monarchy meant the new rule of her son, King Edward VII (1841-1910). Womenswear became more stream-lined and dainty. The Edwardian Era is named after the eldest son of Queen Victoria and lasted until he died in 1910. King Edward IV was described as a man who emphasized fashion trends and luxury. His extravagant demeanor and lifestyle influenced the era....
Victorian Horology: 19th Century Watch Ornament History & Trends
By the 19th century, advancements in watchmaking had grown with the Industrial Revolution boom, but horology has always been a fascinating science. Dating as far back as 1450 BC, the measurements of time have intrigued civilizations, and our desire to keep track of time led to the invention of wearing watches. The watches' designs have developed tremendously over the past few centuries, and the beloved timepiece has become a trend with various styles, techniques, and inspirations. One of the earliest forms of watch ornaments was created by German locksmith and watchmaker Peter Henlein (1485-1542) during the German Renaissance Era (1470-1600)....
Victorian Times: 19th Century Jewelry Catalogues Amidst the Rise of Mass Production
The Industrial Revolution (c.1760-c.1840) birthed various advanced techniques that ushered in mass production within the jewelry industry. Advancements in jewelry techniques created a substantial market for ready-to-wear designs with superb craftsmanship. Fine jewelry of superior quality was accessible to a broader range of people, including the emerging Victorian Middle Class. Electroplating allowed for thin layers of gold and silver to be combined on a metal base sheet. This technique introduced a new collection of jewelry choices that were more lightweight and affordable compared to the pricier and heavier pieces created with precious metals. Engraved gold-filled bangles with intricate etched designs were highly sought after,...